1. What is Communication?

Communication can be defined as the process of exchange of information through means such as words, actions, signs, etc., between two or more individuals. This exchange is an essential part of existence. Think of a baby in a cradle; it communicates its needs to its mother with a cry. This simple act is a form of communication.

Whether simple or complex, any communication system is built on three essential parts:

• Sender: The person or station that sends a message.
• Channel: The medium through which the message signals travel to reach the destination.
• Receiver: The person or station that receives the message.

But for this exchange to happen, the information must be converted into a form that can travel through the channel. This is where signals come in.